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According to sources, China is seeing an increase in respiratory infections such as human metapneumovirus (HMPV). According to reports and social media posts, the infection is spreading quickly, with some hospitals and crematoria becoming overburdened. Online videos reveal crowded hospitals, with social media users pointing out the presence of several viruses, including influenza A, HMPV, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Covid-19.
Unverified claims of a state of emergency in China are also available online.
However, there has been no formal confirmation that a state of emergency has been issued.
The National Disease Control and Prevention Administration has implemented a monitoring system to track pneumonia of unknown origin, with respiratory infections predicted to increase during the winter.
The action attempts to strengthen readiness and build standards for dealing with unknown viruses, given the problems encountered during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The symptoms of HMPV are similar to those of influenza and other respiratory diseases. Common symptoms include a cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath.
In severe situations, the virus can cause problems such as bronchitis and pneumonia. HMPV normally has an incubation period of three to six days, with symptoms continuing for variable periods depending on the severity of the infection.
How Does the HMPV Spread?
HMPV spreads similarly to other respiratory viruses. Transmission happens through:
- secretions from coughing and sneezing.
- Close personal contact, such as handshakes or touching
- Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes
How Does the HMPV Spread?
According to the CDC, HMPV poses a higher risk to specific demographics, including:
- Young children.
- Older adults.
- People with compromised immune systems
Seek medical attention if you or your child exhibit indications of a respiratory infection and have a pre-existing illness that may increase the risk of consequences (Cleveland Clinic).
Symptoms persist or worsen after a few days, or if a fever lasts more than three days with no improvement.
Precautionary measures
- Regularly wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Avoid touching your face with dirty hands.
- Maintain a safe distance from anyone who appears to be ill.
- Clean regularly used surfaces like doorknobs and toys.
What Should Those With HMPV Symptoms Do?
Cover your mouth and nose: When sneezing or coughing, use a tissue to avoid spreading droplets.
Wash your hands on a regular basis. Frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds can reduce the chance of transmission . Avoid sharing personal goods. To limit the risk of infection, avoid sharing utensils, cups, or other personal belongings. Stay at home: If you’re sick, it’s better to stay at home and relax to prevent the infection from spreading to others.
Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccination for HMPV. Medical care for infected people is supportive, focused on symptom relief and preventing complications.
According to WebMD, HMPV and COVID-19 have many similarities, including the fact that they both cause respiratory problems such as coughing, fever, congestion, sore throat, and shortness of breath, and that they transmit via respiratory droplets.
Severe instances may necessitate hospitalization. HMPV normally peaks in the winter and spring, whereas COVID-19 might spread year-round due to changing variations.
According to studies, HMPV instances increased threefold in some places once COVID-19 restrictions were abolished. The decrease in exposure to viruses during lockdowns certainly lowered immunity, resulting in a surge in respiratory illnesses after precautions were eased.
